Healthy Headlines tips

Novant Health is here to keep you healthy and well with tips and advice for the whole family.

Less than 50 percent of Americans got the flu shot last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The misconceptions surrounding influenza vaccinations can be as rampant and hard to fight as the virus itself.

Doctors at the North Carolina Department Health and Human Services Department have said that the state has experienced a spike in flu activity since the middle of December. More worrying, they caution the heightened activity may cause more deaths.

If you like to exercise outside, it’s tempting to just soldier through colder weather without changing your routine too much. However, cooler temperatures can greatly affect everything from your muscles to certain medical conditions.

It’s officially the season of cookies and candy canes, sugarplums and savory pies. But a festive holiday spirit doesn’t mean you have to reach for your fat pants. Follow these easy tips to keep your diet and exercise on track during the holidays. When the scale reads the same – or something even better – come January, that’ll really be something to celebrate!

How Does the Flu Virus Spread?

The flu virus spreads from person to person through sneezing or coughing near another person, or onto an object or surface, which is then touched by another person who touches his or her face, eyes, nose or mouth.

Practice good health habits

This flu season, practice good health behaviors and teach these same behaviors to your friends and family:

Avoid close contact

Keep at least 6 feet from anyone who appears sick. This is called "social distancing"

Stay home if you have a fever >100°. Do not go to school or work with a fever.

Don't share food, drinks, make-up or other items that could transfer germs.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.